Iraqi security forces, supported by the U.S.-led coalition, have killed Abu Khadija, the leader of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, in a critical operation. This significant action is part of the ongoing fight against IS as the group attempts to regain power in various regions. While IS has transitioned to guerrilla tactics, it continues to pose a global threat, including the rise of its affiliates in Africa and Afghanistan.
Iraqi security forces, in collaboration with the U.S.-led coalition, successfully eliminated Abu Khadija, the leader of the Islamic State (IS) in Iraq and Syria. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani confirmed this significant operation, emphasizing that Abu Khadija was regarded as “one of the most dangerous terrorists in Iraq and the world.”
Abu Khadija, whose real name is Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rufay’i, was killed during the operation aimed at curtailing IS’s resurgence. The group, which once declared a caliphate in 2014, has been striving to regain power both in the Middle East and internationally, as noted by Prime Minister al-Sudani.
Since its formation, IS has conducted numerous attacks, particularly evidenced by the Central Command’s report indicating a rise in their activity — with claims of 153 attacks in Iraq and Syria in early 2024, suggesting an alarming resurgence.
The Islamic State experienced its peak control between 2014 and 2017, implementing harsh rule across significant portions of Iraq and Syria. A coalition-led military campaign, however, eventually dismantled the IS caliphate. Following this collapse, IS transitioned into a guerrilla warfare model but continues to pose threats globally.
Many insurgents have sought refuge in remote regions of Iraq and Syria, while their affiliates have extended operations into countries like Afghanistan, where ISIS-K, a notable branch, has emerged. IS has also expanded its influence into various African regions, underscoring its continued viability on a global scale.
In the context of this ongoing battle against terrorism, it is critical to remain vigilant as IS continues to adapt its strategies and seeks to launch attacks beyond its traditional hubs.
The successful elimination of Abu Khadija signals a vital defeat for the Islamic State amidst its attempts to reconstitute itself. While Iraqi and coalition forces have made significant strides in combatting IS, the group’s adaptation to guerrilla tactics and its expansion into other regions underline the ongoing global challenge posed by terrorism. Vigilance and coordinated efforts remain imperative in addressing this threat.
Original Source: news.abplive.com
